A brutal murder of a young couple , seems to be the standard opening for any number of generic slasher movies. But, within a few minutes we realise this is no run of the mill horror flick.
A young women walks an empty train station as the constant whir and click of an old movie projector along with a dreamy, chilling and darkly haunting score act as our soundtrack. She returns to her hometown after 13 years of being away to attend to her sick mother.. and that's probably all you need to know going into this beautiful and mesmerising film.
To give away the plot would of course , deny the viewer from the utter pleasure and unique vision of 13 Dolls in Darkness.
Shot and edited in a style reminiscent of Dr Caligari and less well know silent chiller, The Hands of Orlac from director Robert Wiene, along with nods to the classic Giallo directors of the 60's and 70's, director Zeda Muller frames every shot with meticulous details and some striking black and white cinematography. The fact that it is a silent film with only dialogue cards appearing to move us along the plot, should not be something to keep you from watching the film. As you are drawn in by the visuals , you come to realise, this is the perfect medium to enjoy the film and personally, I wouldn't have it any other way.
Zeda Muller brings her unique talent front and center in the world filled with 4k spectacle and grand sweeping cinematic movements. Proving that simplicity and talent can still offer the world of horror something truly special.
Turn off the lights, open a bottle of your favourite tipple and enjoy one of the best horror films I have seen in recent years.
13 Dolls in Darkness, is highly recommended. See it when you can.
